South San Francisco has been awarded the 2014 Innovation Award by the Municipal Information Systems Association of California (MISAC) for developing a new software application called the “Police Department Canvass Mapper.” The new technology enables police officers in the field to report and track information using any smart phone device, updating the database in real time and enhancing internal communications within the Department.
“This innovative new technology will improve our communications and situational awareness in field operations,” says Police Chief Jeff Azzopardi. “It is especially valuable for our officers in the field. Feedback from staff has been positive, and it is very easy to use.”
The project began with a call to the South San Francisco Information Technology Department from the multi-jurisdictional Task Force hosted by the South San Francisco Police Department investigating a cold case from the 1970s. The Task Force, which included the South San Francisco Police Department, Federal Bureau of Investigations, San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office, Daly City Police Department and Pacifica Police Department, needed an efficient method to record updates on canvassed areas while officers conducted investigations. Traditional canvassing practices were burdensome since they relied heavily on hard copy of maps, paper forms and radio communications.
Within two weeks, the Information Technology Department developed the Police Department Canvass Mapper, enabling the Task Force to electronically map out and update canvassed locations on mobile devices and desktop computers.
The Police Department Canvass Mapper achieved statewide recognition for improving services and elevating productivity during the annual MISAC conference, winning the MISAC Innovation Award for 2014. The award was presented to South San Francisco Information Technology Director Doug Hollis, who accepted the honor on behalf of the City.
“The Municipal Information Systems Association of California recognizes the outstanding efforts and innovative solutions by the City of South San Francisco in making positive changes through the creative use of technology,” says MISAC President Brian Lewton. “Congratulations to the City of South San Francisco for the development of the innovative PD Canvass Mapper.”
For more information, please contact Information Technology Director Doug Hollis at (650) 829-3919.
Congratulations South San Francisco Police Department for winning the MISAC Innovation Award for 2014.